Giving Back Magazine January 2019 | Page 51

Lidia S. Martinez with Mariachi Vargas at the San Diego Mariachi Scholarship Foundation Concert Dr. Rafael Fernandez de Castro Luisa McCarthy Dr. Adela de la Torre Tonya Torosian and Lidia S. Martinez supporting Promises 2 Kids opportunity to participate in the annual trip to Washington, D.C. The partnership with Southwest Airlines has been crucial to making this trip possible. Ocean Discovery is also dedicated to empowering young people by exposing them to and educating them in science. Southwest Airlines works with the organization as the official airline of Ocean Discovery Institute, allowing students to participate in scientific conferences across the nation. In addition to supporting local organizations, Southwest Airlines also believes in the importance of shining a spotlight on accomplished individuals. This includes local business owner Luisa McCarthy who has been fundamental in revitalizing Southwest Airlines prides itself in supporting our youth, leadership, education and culture. La Vista Memorial Park, Dr. Adela de la Torre who has become the first female President of San Diego State University and has a brilliant vision for its future, Dr. Rafael Fernández de Castro, one of the first Latinos to serve in congress and now director of the Center for U.S.-Mexican Studies, as well as Haida Mojdehi who has dedicated her time to advocating on behalf of children’s health. Like Southwest Airlines, each of these selfless individuals has taken their personal experiences, skills and resources to help improve the lives of those around them to help San Diego and our residents thrive. www.southwest.com JANUARY 2019 | GBSAN.COM 51